British comedian Barry Cryer has died at the age of 86.
The Leeds-born comedian was described as a “gifted writer and performer” and “giant of British comedy” in a series of tributes shared on social media after news of his passing.
A cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Cryer’s career in the entertainment industry spans decades and saw him work with comedy legends including Bob Hope, Bruce Forsyth, David Frost and Spike Milligan.
He also penned episodes for the TV comedy Doctor in The House, which ran from 1969 to 1970.
He appeared as a regular on BBC Radio 4’s I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue, which began in 1972.
Following the tragic news of Cryer’s passing, celebrity friends and fans flocked to social media to pay tribute.
“Such sad news, one of the absolute greats of British comedy, Barry Cryer, is no more,” tweeted Stephen Fry.
He added: “A glorious, gorgeous, hilarious and gifted writer and performer who straddled all the comic traditions. Universally beloved … farewell, Baz.”
Piers Morgan tweeted: “Such a warm, funny and talented man. A giant of British comedy. Thanks for all the laughs, Barry.”
RIP Barry Cryer, 86.
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) January 27, 2022
Such a warm, funny and talented man. A giant of British comedy. Thanks for all the laughs, Barry. pic.twitter.com/Qoc7Onjz3K
Such sad news, one of the absolute greats of British comedy, Barry Cryer, is no more. A glorious, gorgeous, hilarious and gifted writer and performer who straddled all the comic traditions. Universally beloved … farewell, Baz.
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) January 27, 2022
Gyles Brandreth penned alongside his last photo with Cryer: “RIP #BarryCryer. Here we are only a few weeks ago. Baz was just the loveliest guy: funny & generous.
“He’d worked with everybody & everybody he worked with liked him. I shall miss his happy company so much – & his regular phone calls: he gave you a gem of a joke with each one.”
RIP #BarryCryer. I took this happy picture in the churchyard of St Paul’s, Covent Garden. Wherever Barry went he brought laughter with him - even to memorial services. And he went to lots because he’d worked with everyone! He was generous about everyone: a great mentor & friend. pic.twitter.com/WVKIBrs5Ol
— Gyles Brandreth (@GylesB1) January 27, 2022
More to follow…